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Cape travellers flock to Fruit Bat Falls

30 October 2015

A popular picnicking and swimming stop on the way to the tip of Cape York Peninsula, recently upgraded by the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service (QPWS) to cope with increasing numbers of visitors, has had its busiest season yet.

The day-use area of Fruit Bat Falls, in Heathlands Regional Park about 140km south of the Cape, has a new carpark, toilets, picnic shelters, signage, boardwalk and viewing platform, after a three-year project costing $738,000.

QPWS Regional Director Northern James Newman said a swim at Fruit Bat Falls was part of the adventure in getting to Cape York, and the upgrade was to cater for the boom in visitors.

"With the improved condition of the Peninsula Development Road over the past few years we have seen a large increase in traffic to this iconic site during the peak season from April to October," Mr Newman said.

"QPWS had to replace the previous parking area and toilets that were designed for much lower numbers.

"This is one of the few places on the Cape that’s safe for swimming.

"After a hot, dusty journey, just about everyone loves to stop here and take the 500 metre walk to a refreshing dip in sparkling waters under the wide cascades.

"QPWS manages this section of the park in collaboration with the Atambaya traditional owners. The upgrade was done in consultation with Atambaya and tour operators.

"If you’re planning your dream trip to the Cape next year, keep in mind there is no camping at Fruit Bat Falls, but the very spacious Eliot Falls camping area is just up the road," Mr Newman said.